Atlanta offers a dynamic mix of activities that cater to a variety of interests, whether you’re looking for a romantic date night, a fun outing with friends, or an adventurous day out. The city has a vibrant arts scene, lively nightlife, outdoor activities, and diverse dining experiences. Here’s a breakdown of what you can do in Atlanta when dating or just going out:
- Outdoor Activities & Nature
Piedmont Park: A massive park in the heart of Atlanta, ideal for a picnic, a walk, or renting bikes. It offers a great skyline view and hosts various events throughout the year.
Atlanta Botanical Garden: For a romantic and peaceful date, explore this beautiful garden with its lush landscapes, art exhibits, and seasonal displays. The “Orchid Display” and “Tree Canopy Walk” are particularly popular.
Atlanta BeltLine: The BeltLine is a 22-mile loop connecting neighborhoods with walking and biking trails, art installations, and great dining spots. It’s a fantastic way to explore Atlanta’s neighborhoods and is perfect for a casual date or an afternoon outing.
Stone Mountain Park: If you enjoy more of an adventure, consider a trip to Stone Mountain Park. You can hike up the mountain, enjoy the view, or explore the various attractions, including the scenic railroad or the laser show during the warmer months. - Dining and Nightlife
Krog Street Market & Ponce City Market: These two iconic markets are great for an afternoon or evening out. Enjoy a variety of food from local vendors, browse unique shops, and take in the lively atmosphere. Ponce City Market even has a rooftop with mini-golf and spectacular views of the city.
Dining in Midtown or Buckhead: Midtown and Buckhead are both filled with high-end restaurants, trendy spots, and casual eateries. Some standouts include Staplehouse for innovative dining, The Optimist for seafood, and Chops Lobster Bar for a classic steakhouse experience.
Cocktail Bars: Atlanta is known for its craft cocktail scene. For a cozy night out, check out The Cloak Room for a speakeasy vibe, or Ticonderoga Club for a fun, quirky atmosphere. Pinewood is another great spot if you’re looking for unique drinks and a chill vibe.
Live Music: For a date that combines good music and a fun atmosphere, head to venues like Eddie’s Attic for intimate acoustic performances or Tabernacle for larger concerts. Smith’s Olde Bar also offers a mix of live performances in a casual setting. - Unique Date Ideas
Skyline Views: For a romantic evening, take in the stunning views of the city from high above. Visit SkyLounge at the Glenn Hotel or Polaris at the Hyatt Regency, which offer 360-degree views of Atlanta’s skyline. Perfect for sunset or cocktails at night.
Atlanta Ferris Wheel: Located at Pemberton Place, the Ferris wheel offers great views of downtown Atlanta. It’s a fun and low-key way to spend some time with a partner or friends, especially at night when the city lights shine.
Go-Kart Racing: For an active date or group outing, head to Andretti Indoor Karting & Games in Roswell. It’s an exciting way to race around the track, plus they have bowling, laser tag, and arcade games for added fun. - Arts & Culture
High Museum of Art: For a cultural and inspiring date, visit the High Museum of Art. With rotating exhibits and permanent collections, it’s a great spot for art lovers.
Atlanta History Center: If you enjoy history, the History Center offers a fascinating look at Atlanta’s past. The center includes the Swan House, the Atlanta History Museum, and beautiful gardens.
Fox Theatre: This historic theater hosts Broadway shows, live performances, and classic films. Catching a show here is a classic, romantic date idea.
Theatre & Comedy: Atlanta has a lively performing arts scene. You can see a play at The Alliance Theatre or enjoy a comedy show at The Punchline or The Laughing Skull Lounge. - Weekend Getaways
Weekend Getaway to Lake Lanier: A quick drive outside of Atlanta, Lake Lanier is great for a lakeside retreat. Rent a boat, go kayaking, or just enjoy the peaceful setting.
Chateau Elan Winery & Resort: Located about 40 minutes from Atlanta, this vineyard and resort offers wine tastings, spa services, and romantic dining, making it an ideal spot for a weekend escape.
Callaway Gardens: About an hour and a half from Atlanta, Callaway Gardens is a beautiful place for a relaxing getaway. You can hike, bike, or explore the butterfly garden and nature trails. - Fun & Offbeat Activities
Escape Rooms: For a fun challenge, try one of Atlanta’s many escape rooms like The Escape Game Atlanta or Paranoia Quest. It’s a great way to bond while solving puzzles together.
Atlanta Underground: Check out the historic Underground Atlanta, with its variety of stores, bars, and nightclubs. It’s a fun place to explore if you want a mix of history and nightlife. - Seasonal Events
Food & Wine Festivals: Depending on the time of year, Atlanta hosts numerous food and wine festivals like the Atlanta Food & Wine Festival or Taste of Atlanta. These are perfect for a weekend outing, offering a chance to sample local cuisine and craft drinks.
Peach Drop: If you’re in Atlanta around New Year’s Eve, the Peach Drop is a local tradition where a giant peach drops to ring in the new year, similar to Times Square’s ball drop. It’s a fun event to attend with friends or a date.
Holiday Lights & Festivals: In winter, head to places like Garden Lights, Holiday Nights at the Atlanta Botanical Garden, or drive through the Stone Mountain Christmas light displays for a cozy, festive date. - Food Trucks and Pop-up Events
Atlanta is known for its food trucks, and you can often find them at local parks, breweries, or pop-up events. For a casual outing, explore the variety of food trucks offering everything from tacos to gourmet grilled cheese.
Check out events like Atlanta Street Food Festival or Atlanta Food Truck Park for a laid-back date or outing. - Relaxation and Spa Time
Spa Days: Atlanta has plenty of options for a luxurious spa day, such as The Spa at Four Seasons or The Mandarin Oriental. Treat yourself and your date to a relaxing massage or pampering day.
Floatation Therapy: For a unique experience, try floatation therapy at The Float Spot in Midtown. It’s a relaxing and stress-relieving activity to do together.
Atlanta is a city with something for every taste, whether you’re seeking romance, adventure, culture, or fun. You can be as laid-back or as adventurous as you like!
